Ultimate Guide to the SAT and ACT
Getting ready to take the SAT and/or ACT? Continue reading to learn how to prepare, what to expect on the exam and more.
Feb 22, 2019 | By Maryalene LaPonsie
Get your pencils ready. More than three out of four colleges say standardized test scores are an important part of their admissions process, according to Peterson's, publisher of college guides.
For most schools, those scores come from one of the following two tests: the SAT or the ACT. While the SAT is older, more students take the ACT each year. That may be because at least 18 states require all public high school students to take the ACT.
Most colleges and universities accept scores from either test, so that means it's up to students to decide which one to take — or even both.
Keep reading for all the details, like test costs, available prep resources, and study tips, to help you determine whether the ACT or SAT is right for you.
Taken by students since 1926 and once more commonly known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test, the SAT is administered by the College Board and contains four components:
The SAT has traditionally been considered a more rigorous test and the one preferred by elite schools. However, with so many colleges accepting the ACT as of 2017, the SAT has seen its test-taking numbers decline.
According to the College Board, the SAT is designed to measure knowledge learned in high school and evaluate what students need to succeed in college. Rather than test how well students memorize facts and vocabulary, the new SAT focuses on analysis, critical thinking and problems with real-world applications.
In order to address concerns with the test, the SAT was revamped in 2016. The scoring scale was changed, penalties for incorrect answers were eliminated and the required essay became optional. However, note that while the essay became optional for test-takers, some institutions still require it for admissions. It's best to check with the admissions department of the schools you want to attend before taking the test and asking about their specific testing requirements, just to be sure.
This second college admissions standardized test was created in 1959 at the University of Iowa. Professor Everett Franklin Lindquist was reportedly unhappy with the SAT, so he developed his own American College Testing program. Today, the ACT is a test of the following areas:
In years past, the ACT gained a reputation as being an easier test for some students to succeed at, although whether that is true or not is difficult to prove. It is scored on a different scale than the SAT and has slightly different content areas.
The ACT is a curriculum-based test designed to reflect knowledge students have gained in high school. It asks test-takers to find the best answer in its English, reading and science sections, while the math portion needs students to provide the correct answer. The science section is not as concerned with specific knowledge as with a student's critical thinking skills.
As with the SAT, the essay is optional on the ACT. However, some schools might require it for admittance, so be sure to check with schools you are applying to.
The SAT and ACT have similar objectives. Both aim to help colleges and universities make informed admissions decisions by measuring a student's knowledge and skills. Some students choose to take both tests, while others limit themselves to just one. The following chart highlights the differences between the two examinations:
When it comes to getting the highest score possible, the SAT says the best way to prepare is to take challenging classes in school, complete homework and ask plenty of questions. While that's all good advice, students can do more to improve their ability to earn a good score.
First, students should review the test content. Both the SAT and the ACT provide sample questions on their websites along with detailed information about the contents of each section. Next, students should look for other resources to help them prepare. While various prep centers offer courses for purchase, don't overlook free options.
Everyone studies differently, but these tips can be used by everyone to maximize their SAT or ACT score:
Both the SAT and ACT are offered on seven different test days per year for U.S. students. Typically, you need to register about a month in advance of the test or pay a late registration fee. Late registrations close roughly two weeks before the test date. Check the SAT and ACT websites for exact deadlines, since these can vary from year to year.
Testing is often held at high schools and colleges. Many states have dozens of sites available for each testing date, making it convenient to find a nearby location.
Registrations can be submitted online or through the mail. When registering online, students should plan to spend at least 30-40 minutes on the process. In addition to collecting your demographic information, the registration process allows students to enter information about high school coursework and interests. This information is used to help colleges and scholarships find students that meet their criteria. Both the SAT and ACT also require the submission of a photo for identity verification purposes on test day.
Both tests cost $46 for the base test without the writing or essay portion. With the essay, the SAT costs $60, and the ACT price is $62.50. Payment is made at the time of registration.
You'll want to double-check for changes on the SAT or ACT website prior to your test date, but as a general rule, gather the following items to take with you:
That's it! If you need medications, food for a medical condition or other accommodations, be sure to request those in advance.
You can bring a watch to time yourself, but if it has an alarm and goes off during the test, you could be dismissed and your test won't be scored. The ACT doesn't allow food or drinks, but the SAT says you can bring snacks for your break. Eating or drinking during the test is not allowed.
These items are also not allowed in the testing area for either the SAT or ACT:
A complete list of prohibited items is available on each test's website.
On the day of your test, check the SAT or ACT website for any changes due to inclement weather. Times should be listed on your admission ticket, but doors generally open for both tests at 7:45 a.m. and close at 8:00 a.m. The SAT begins between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., while the ACT says it may start as soon as examinees are checked and seated.
During the ACT, there is a break after the first two tests and before the optional writing portion. The SAT gives students one 10-minute break and one five-minute break during the test. Don't be tempted to check your phone during those times! Using digital devices, including a phone, could get you dismissed from the testing site.
Scores are generally available online about two weeks after the testing date. In some cases, the score for the essay portion of the test may be released after the other test scores.
When you register for your test, you should be able to select up to four schools to send your scores for free. If you didn't make this selection prior to your test day, the SAT gives you nine days after the test to select these schools. After this period, there may be a fee to send your test scores. The ACT also allows students to send scores after testing day for a fee. Most requests are processed within a week, but an expedited service may be available for an additional cost.
If you aren't happy with your scores, you can always retake the test on a future date. Many students test two or more times, so don't feel bad about deciding to try again.
Once schools receive your scores and other admissions information, they decide whether to accept you as a student. Review the school information, as well as any financial aid packages, and notify the institutions of your decision.
Congratulations! You are now college-bound! Start planning next steps, and browse what you should know when it comes to financial aid resources.